Overview
Belcoo (Irish: Béal Cú, “mouth of the narrows”) is a tiny border village of 439 people (2021) set on the narrow channel that joins Upper and Lower Lough MacNean. It lies in the Fermanagh and Omagh District, a stone’s throw from the limestone scenery of the Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark.
Bellanaleck (Irish: Béal Átha na Leice, “mouth of the ford of the flagstone”) is a slightly larger settlement of 714 residents (2021) on the southern shore of Lough Erne, a few kilometres south of Enniskillen on the A509 (N3) road to Cavan and Dublin. Its lakeside setting provides peaceful promenades, fishing, and sweeping drumlin views.
Both villages sit within a short drive of each other and form a natural gateway to the waterways, bogs and historic sites that define the Lough Erne region.
History / Background
- Early references – An Ulster saga mentions a chief named Belcu Brefne, linking the area to the legendary hero Conall Cernach. By the 14th century the place appears as Cunga, and a 1609 plantation map records it as Kiliconge (“the wood of the narrow strip of land”).
- 17th‑century fort – During the 1641 Irish Rebellion the English army erected a fort at Belcoo, shown on the Down Survey maps of 1655. A Treasury record of 1700 notes a foot‑soldier stationed there, and the village was described in the early 1700s as a “fine large ford” with a barrack on the north riverbank.
- 20th‑century border – Partition turned Belcoo into a frontier settlement. In March 1922 an IRA column seized the RIC barracks after a three‑hour fight, capturing fifteen officers. Although the 1925 Boundary Commission proposed transferring Belcoo to the Irish Free State, the plan was never enacted.
- Bellanaleck’s crossing – The village grew around a historic ford on the Erne that linked the fertile lands of Fermanagh with Enniskillen. Its name reflects this crossing point. Notable sons include traditional flute player Cathal McConnell (The Boys of the Lough) and columnist Father Brian D’Arcy.
- Community hubs – Belcoo’s modern heart is the Belcoo Enterprise Ltd complex (opened 1992), housing the Belcoo Historical Society, a doctor’s surgery, chiropodist and Lakeland Community Care. The Mullycovet corn mill (1830‑1920s) is under restoration, and the Indigenous Resources School of Transferable Skills provides training using natural materials.
What to See & Do
Belcoo
- Holy Well of St Patrick (Dabhc Phádraig) – A natural spring just outside the village, traditionally believed to cure cattle ailments such as murrain and milk‑fever. Pilgrims still visit to perform devotions.
- Belcoo Fort earthworks – While the stone fort no longer stands, its outlines are visible along the riverbank and are marked with interpretive signs explaining its 17th‑century role.
- Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail – A 12 km (8 mi) loop starting a minute’s drive from the village. The boardwalk traverses limestone pastures, dry‑stone walls and the iconic blanket bog of Cuilcagh Mountain, with highlights including the Fertile Rock wildflower‑rich limestone grassland and a viewing platform on the mountain’s edge.
Bellanaleck
- Lough Erne Shoreline Walk – A gentle lakeside promenade offering panoramic water views, bird‑watching and picnic spots beside the water.
- Carrickcraft Motor‑Cruiser Hire – Based in Bellanaleck, this service lets visitors explore Lough Erne’s hidden islands and secluded bays. No prior boating experience is required; training, maps and life‑jackets are provided.
- Marble Arch Caves – About 7.4 mi north‑west in Florencecourt, these award‑winning underground rivers showcase spectacular stalactites, waterfalls and a unique subterranean ecosystem.
- Enniskillen Castle & Town – A short drive north brings you to the historic castle overlooking the twin lakes of Lough Erne, plus museums, craft shops and a vibrant market.
- Castle Coole – An 18th‑century Palladian mansion set in extensive parkland, offering insight into the Anglo‑Irish aristocratic past.
- Local Pubs & Cuisine – Sample Ulster fry, fresh soda bread and locally caught fish in cosy village pubs that source produce from nearby farms.
- Cultural Walks – A heritage trail with plaques commemorating Bellanaleck’s notable figures, including Cathal McConnell and Father Brian D’Arcy.
Wildlife & Nature
The waterways around Belcoat and Bellanaleck are prime habitats for a range of bird species, including whooper swans, golden plovers and the occasional hen harrier. The surrounding drumlin countryside supports red‑breasted nuthatches, meadow pipits and a variety of butterflies that thrive on the wildflower‑rich limestone grasslands of the Cuilcagh Boardwalk. Early‑morning walks are ideal for spotting otters and water‑vole along the riverbanks.
Nearby Attractions
- Castle Hume – A 17th‑century fortified house on the shores of Lough Erne, offering guided tours and a visitor centre. (/castle-hume/)
- Carrybridge – A scenic lakeside village with a historic bridge, popular for sailing and watersports. (/carrybridge/)
- Boa Island – Home to the famous Janus stones and early Christian carvings. (/boa-island/)
- Crumlin Forest – Walks among ancient oak and pine, part of the larger Cladagh Glen network.
These sites can be combined into a full‑day itinerary, using the A509 as a convenient loop.
Practical Information
Getting Here
- By Road – Both villages are easily accessed via the A509 (N3). From Enniskillen, travel south 5 km to Bellanaleck; continue west‑northwest for a few kilometres to reach Belcoo, which sits on the border with the Republic of Ireland.
- Border Crossing – Belcoo lies directly on the Republic‑Northern Ireland border; standard UK/EU travel rules apply.
- Public Transport – Bus services run between Enniskillen and Cavan, stopping at Bellanaleck. The nearest railway station is in Enniskillen.
Parking & Facilities
- Cuilcagh Boardwalk – Small free car park at the trailhead; a toilet block is available during the summer months.
- Lough Erne Shoreline Walk – Free roadside parking at the Bellanaleck launch area; a picnic bench and litter bins are provided.
- Carrickcraft Launch – Dedicated parking bays for motor‑cruiser hire customers, with disabled‑accessible spaces.
- Community Services – Belcoo Enterprise Ltd provides a doctor’s surgery, chiropodist and community care centre.
- Toilets – Public toilets are available at the boardwalk visitor centre and at the Bellanaleck promenade.
Accessibility
- The boardwalk trail is wheelchair‑friendly in most sections, though some boardwalk sections can be uneven after heavy rain. The shoreline walk is flat and suitable for strollers.
- Boat‑cruiser hire offers assistance for visitors with limited mobility; contact Carrickcraft in advance.
Best Time to Visit
Late spring to early autumn offers the most favourable weather for boardwalk walks, boating on Lough Erne and exploring the caves. Autumn brings spectacular foliage on the drumlins, while winter can be quiet and ideal for bird‑watching.
Whether tracing ancient forts on the banks of Lough MacNean or cruising the emerald waters of Lough Erne, Belcoo and Bellanaleck together deliver a rich blend of history, natural beauty and authentic Irish hospitality.